The cost of filling up is more expensive than it has ever been across the UK, with a national average price of 127.88p per litre for unleaded and 132.24p a litre for diesel – close to the July 2008 record of 133.25.

The average prices in Chester are just below the national average at 127.58p and 131.93p but price comparison website www.petrolprices.com showed the most expensive stations in the city were charging 129.9p and 134.9p - more than £6 a gallon (132p).

Thrifty motorists are shopping around and the cheapest prices are 123.9p and 128.9p.

AA president Edmund King said: “It comes at a particularly bad time for drivers who have struggled with appalling winter weather and often seen their fuel drain away while stuck in traffic jams.”

The hikes mean the extra monthly cost of petrol for a two-car family is £25.23, when compared to this time last year.

RAC motoring strategist Adrian Tink said: “These increases hit everyone, but it’s the families, small businesses and those in rural areas who get hit hardest.”